Microsoft Researcher Returns to India After PhD Completion

Nandan Thakur, a postdoctoral researcher at Microsoft India in Bengaluru, returned to India after completing his PhD at the University of Waterloo in Canada. He shared his reasons for returning in an article on X.

Thakur explained that he didn't have a single strong reason to return, but rather an accumulation of small things that were crucial for his life. He missed social connection, particularly during Edmonton's harsh winters when it was difficult to socialize and spend time at home.

He also missed Indian food, friends, and family, which he couldn't easily access while living in Canada. The distance from India meant missing close friends' weddings and important occasions, and flights could cost CAD 2,000-3,000 and take around 18 hours.

Thakur experienced uncertainty as an immigrant, with visa processes, paperwork, and immigration status causing anxiety. He recalled how some Indian students faced additional difficulties during the Covid-19 pandemic due to Canada's vaccine recognition requirements.